At CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature.
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Job description
Looking for an opportunity to apply your mechanical engineering skills to the upgrade of the world's most powerful particle accelerator? Join CERN's Vacuum, Surfaces and Coatings (VSC) Group and contribute to the upgrade of critical beam vacuum systems that are essential for the performance and reliability of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC).
Working alongside experienced engineers, technicians and physicists, you will support the installation, testing and commissioning of key equipment that will help prepare the LHC for future scientific discoveries. No prior experience in particle accelerators is required. We will provide all the necessary training and support, making this an excellent opportunity to develop specialist skills in a unique international environment.
Your responsibilities
Perform vacuum acceptance testing of baked components intended for installation in the HL-LHC collimator upgrade.
Test and validate vacuum equipment before installation, perform residual gas analysis (RGA) ensuring it meets performance and quality requirements.
Carry out leak tests, bake-out system installation and non-evaporable-getter (NEG) activation on vacuum components and assemblies.
Assemble and prepare mechanical and vacuum systems for installation and operation.
Support the installation, testing and commissioning of equipment for the LHC upgrade programme.
Prepare technical documentation, test reports and intervention records.
Coordinate with suppliers and support the procurement and delivery of technical components.
Participate in maintenance, upgrade and repair activities on equipment installed in the LHC tunnel.
Your profile
Experience with helium leak detection methods and equipment.
Experience with on-site vacuum system work, including mechanical installation and in-situ testing.
Basic experience with outgassing phenomena in vacuum systems and with quadruple mass spectrometers (RGA) for residual gas analysis in UHV environments.
Practical familiarity with techniques for achieving and maintaining UHV conditions.
Skills
Understanding of ultra-high vacuum (UHV) principles and fundamentals.
The ability to analyse data from ultra-high vacuum (UHV) gauges.
Basic knowledge on how to assemble and install UHV-compatible components and systems.
Knowledge of helium leak detector use and the ability to perform leak testing and interpret results.
The ability to prepare, update, and manage technical documentation.
Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language.
Eligibility criteria:
You are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
By the application deadline, you have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in BSc in Technical and Applied Studies (or a related field) and your highest educational qualification is either a Bachelor's or Master's degree.
You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
Applicants without University degree are not eligible.
Applicants with a PhD are not eligible.
This position involves:
Work in Radiation Areas.
Interventions in underground installations.
A valid driving licence.
What we offer
A monthly net stipend of either 5,266 or 5,793 Swiss Francs per month depending on your degree.
30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks' annual closure.
Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
A relocation package (installation grant and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
On-the-job and formal training including language classes.
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